Friday, September 1, 2017

It’s Fair Season in Maine!

Agricultural fair season is upon us and thousands will be
attending fairs across the state. The Maine Center for Disease Control and
Prevention (CDC) and the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation, and
Forestry (DACF) would like to remind everyone to use good judgment while
attending Maine’s fairs.

If you are ill, do not attend the fair. This is not only
in the best interest of those around you, but also the animals. Animals are
susceptible to human illnesses, including influenza.

Hand washing is important.

Wash hands before and after touching animals to reduce
the risk of spreading illness from you to the animal and from the animal to
you.

Wash your hands with soap and water before eating. Alcohol
hand gel or sanitizer should be used only if soap and water are not available.
This will help reduce the risk of gastrointestinal illness such as Salmonella.

“Maine agricultural fairs and events are a fun and educational
experience. The fairs’ organizers work diligently to ensure the experience is
safe and healthy but we need to do our part,” said State Veterinarian Michele
Walsh. “The public plays a crucial role in keeping everyone, humans and
animals, healthy.”

Maine CDC and DACF are working closely with the Maine
Association of Agricultural Fairs to promote smart, healthy decisions. This
includes on-site visits by DACF veterinary staff to monitor animal health, and
fair evaluation reports, which include an assessment of Animal and Human Public
Health activities; as well as personal consultation with fair animal area
managers to enhance hand washing or other public health measures to keep
everyone safe and healthy.

“Maine fairs are a great experience,” said Maine’s State
Epidemiologist, Dr. Siiri Bennett. “Let’s all do our part to keep both the
humans and animals safe by staying home if you are sick, and washing your hands
after touching animals and before eating.”